Actally, I was attending the Pokemon TCG World Championship, which was held the same time, but in Disneyworld, next to the EPCOT Center.
Yes, it was a surreal experience, but also very nice in its own way. What REALLY impressed me was the number of entire families who went to the event. End result? An atmosphere that wasn't as negatively competitive and unfriendly as other national championships I've been too.
It also didn't hurt that Hasbro, who was part of this whole affair, put on an interesting side show where kids could do things like have their photos taken with Pikachu, try miscellaneous skill stuff (spin the wheel, hit a target with a bean bag, etc), even a small stage where kids would dance with Treecko.
So yeah, I had a nightmare of a big black mouse in red shorts going up against a thunderbolt hurling yellow one, but that's my fractured psyche. I also saw a couple tons of very happy kids (both over and under 21) there. That adds up to something.
-Steve
P.S. Nicest touch...all the game designers imported from Japan had to run around in lab coats like Professor Oak.
Robert Head wrote:
So the biggest gaming convention of the year is this weekend in Indianapolis. Many of my excellent Paizo compatriots are arriving there today. Be sure to stop by the Paizo booth and see them if you are lucky enough to be going!
Meanwhile, let's hear from everyone...
What's the buzz at Gen Con this year?
What are the coolest new games?
Let's hear it!
